Module 1 – Concepts of IT
Chapter 1.5 – Computers At Work
Pass ECDL4 1

Z Computers can
, calculate millions of times faster than humans
,
,
,
,
, never get tired can do jobs which are dangerous for humans store large amounts of information in one place find information quickly never lose or misplace information
Pass ECDL4 2

Z Computers cannot
, write a book
,
,
, comfort a person in distress think for themselves think of new ideas
Pass ECDL4 3

Z Business Administration
, Payroll
,
,
,
Keeping customer records
Processing sales orders
Keeping accounts
, Stock management
Z Airline Booking Systems
,
,
Bookings instantly recorded to avoid double booking
Availability of flights instantly accessible
Z Online Banking
, Access your account 24/7
, No need to travel to a branch
, Reduction in overheads for the bank
Z Insurance Claims Processing
,
,
Maintain databases to prevent duplicate claims/fraud
Send automatic renewal notices to customers
Pass ECDL4 4

Z Census
, Recording of information including statistics on age, ethnic origin etc
, Ensures schools, hospitals and other facilities are made available
Z Electronic Voting
, Voting register is updated
, Voting by computer either at home or at polling station is likely to take off
Z Vehicle Registration
, DVLC has records of all registered vehicles
Z Revenue Collection
, Inland Revenue keeps records of every taxpayer
,
,
Taxpayers can fill in a tax return online
Tax credits can also be applied for online
Pass ECDL4 5

Z Patient Record systems
,
Doctors’ surgeries are computerised
, Appointment systems
, Print out prescriptions
Z Ambulance Control Systems
, Call-taking, accepting and verifying incidents
,
,
,
Sending out nearest ambulance
Communicating incidents to chosen ambulance
Positioning suitably equipped ambulances to where they are likely to be needed
Z Diagnostic tools and instruments
, Computerised tools to scan and analyse samples
, Monitor vital signs such as heart rate and temperature
, Pacemakers and artificial limbs have changed the lives of many people
Z Specialist surgical equipment
,
,
Assist surgeons with carrying out delicate surgery
Provide 3D vision to eliminate hand-tremor
Pass ECDL4 6

Z Student Registration
, Keep student records
, Enable computerised timetabling
, Swipe-cards to monitor student attendance
Z Computer-Based Training
,
,
Wide range of software packages to aid learning
Can teach a wide range of subjects
Z Online learning
, Student resources made available over the Internet
, Assignments can be submitted via email
Z Distance Learning
Pass ECDL4 7

Many people choose to work at home rather than commuting to the office.
Z Advantages
,
,
,
,
,
,
No travelling time
Avoid traffic jams
Work in the comfort of your own home
Flexible schedules
Reduced office space requirements
Easier childcare
Z Disadvantages
,
,
,
,
Lack of personal contact with colleagues
Lack of teamwork in shared projects
Home distractions
Lesser employee benefits
(medical plans, bonuses etc)
Pass ECDL4 8

Ergonomics refers to design and functionality which includes the following factors
Z Lighting – rooms should be well lit and windows should have blinds to avoid sunlight
Z Ventilation – windows should open to allow free circulation of fresh air
Z Monitors – should be positioned away from sunlight and windows
Z Furniture – use an adjustable chair with good back support set to the correct height for comfortable use of keyboard and mouse
Z Accessories – use copyholders and footrests where necessary
Pass ECDL4 9

Z Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI)
, Collective name for a range of disorders affecting neck, limbs and back
, Results in numbness and tingling in limbs
Z Eyestrain
,
,
Caused by long periods in front of a computer screen
Caused also by poor lighting
Z Back problems
, Caused by poor seating and posture
, Caused by prolonged use of a computer
Z Safety Precautions
, Cables should be safely secured
,
,
,
Keep work surfaces tidy
Take frequent short breaks
Wear your glasses!
Pass ECDL4 10

Z Recycle printer cartridges
Z Recycle printer paper
Z Use Print Preview facility to check your work before printing
Z Do you REALLY need a printout?
Print for a purpose!
Z Use power schemes to reduce amount of electricity used
Z CD-ROMs, electronic documents all reduce the need for printed materials
Pass ECDL4 11